Are you avoiding calling the plumber?
If so, we get it. We’ve all been in a situation where we just want to save some money. And with COVID-19 still spreading, many people are cautious about letting people into their homes.
But how do you fix plumbing problems on your own? Will you accidentally mess up your system?
Not necessarily.
Below, we’ll go into the 5 most common plumbing issues that you can fix yourself. We’ll also tell you to solve them, so keep reading!
1. Clogged Drain
Drains are an essential part of the plumbing system, as they keep excess water and materials from pooling in your home.
After frequent use, drains often become clogged, which defeats their purpose and leaves you with stagnant water.
Clogs come about in a variety of different ways. In showers, hair gets into the drain every time someone washes. It might not even be enough hair for the bather to notice, but over time, the hair builds up and blocks the flow of water.
Kitchen sinks may get clogged when fats and foods are poured down it.
Drain clogs rarely happen suddenly. In fact, you’ll usually notice your water draining more slowly for days, weeks, or even months before the drain clogs completely.
To fix a drain clog, you can either pour baking soda, use a drain unclogging chemical, remove the obstructing items with a plumber’s snake, or use a plunger.
If you choose to use chemicals, make sure you follow the safety instructions on the packaging. Mixing chemicals can make a poisonous gas, so refrain from doing so.
2. Clogged Toilet
Toilets are especially easy to clog.
Typically, toilet bowl blockages come about from a combination of human excrement and paper.
Fortunately, to clear these types of clogs, you usually just need a plunger. You can also use a sewer snake if the plunger fails to dislodge the materials.
3. Running Toilet
There are two main signs of a running toilet: constant water running noise stemming from your bathroom and high water bills.
If you suspect that your toilet may be continuously running, take the cover off the back part of your toilet. Check to make sure your flapper valve properly seals off the water flow from the rest of the toilet once it is finished flushing.
If it isn’t, use a toilet repair kit to fix it.
4. Water Pressure
Often, homes experience low water pressure.
Often, you can solve this problem by soaking either your aerators or your showerhead in vinegar. However, sometimes low water pressure comes from leaking pipes.
5. Garbage Disposal Jams
Garbage disposal jams often occur when the disposal is being used without running water or when certain foods get into them.
When this happens, try hitting the reset button. If the problem persists, use either a key or a wrench to open the disposal.
Still Have Plumbing Problems
If you’re still having plumbing problems after trying everything, it might be time to call a plumber.
Often, plumbing issues can be fixed on your own. However, if you’ve tried everything you can think of and nothing has changed, reach out to a plumbing services company.
At Olympic Plumbing, we offer kinds of plumbing services. Contact us today!
